Prime your canvas for paint using gesso.
Framed canvases are popular among painters and mixed media artists. However, depending on the amount of paint or material applied, the canvas can weaken and begin to stretch over time. Gesso is a mixture of glue and plaster or gypsum commonly used to strengthen the canvas or paper. Artists who work extensively in sketchbooks may use gesso to add a firm foundation to their pages. Whether you purchased a premixed container of gesso or have crafted your own batch, it can be thinned with water for easier workability.
Instructions
1. Dispense your gesso into a bowl of the appropriate size. The size of the bowl should be relative to the amount of gesso you wish to mix and thin.
2. Mix the gesso, if required, according to the manufacturer's instructions printed on the container. Some gesso arrives pre-mixed and ready for use while others may require the addition of water and thorough mixing.
3. Fill a measuring cup with lukewarm water. Pour the water gradually into the bowl of gesso while agitating with a stirring stick.
4. Cease stirring and pouring once the desired consistency has been achieved. Stir the gesso for two to three minutes to ensure that there are no lingering chunks in the mixture.
5. Apply several thin coats of gesso to your canvas, notebook sheet or piece of wood using a putty knife or large sponge. Allow the gesso to set between coats for smooth, uniform coverage.
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